MYP (MIDDLE SCHOOL) STEAM EDUCATOR

About the role

Windermere Preparatory School is looking for a dynamic and forward-thinking IB MYP Design & Innovation Educator responsible for delivering an engaging and rigorous Middle Years Programme (MYP) Design curriculum for students in Grades 6–8. This role plays a critical part in shaping students’ ability to think creatively, solve complex problems, and apply design thinking to real-world challenges. Through the MYP Design Cycle (Inquiring and Analyzing, Developing Ideas, Creating the Solution, and Evaluating) the teacher fosters a learning environment that emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and reflective practice. In addition to classroom instruction, this role contributes to the development and coherence of the Design program, ensuring alignment with IB standards and the school’s broader mission to cultivate globally minded, capable, and curious learners.

Reports to: Middle School Director. Position type: 10-month teaching position.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement MYP Design units aligned with IB standards and best practices
• Design authentic, inquiry-driven learning experiences that engage students in solving real-world problems
• Create and refine assessment tasks aligned to the four MYP Design criteria
• Ensure vertical alignment of skills and concepts across Grades 6–8 to support progression into high school pathways
• Contribute to the ongoing development and evolution of the Design program
• Deliver high-quality instruction grounded in inquiry-based and student-centered learning
• Utilize the MYP Design Cycle to guide student learning and reflection
• Foster the development of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, including research, collaboration, communication, and critical thinking
• Differentiate instruction to meet the needs of diverse learners
• Provide timely and meaningful feedback to support student growth
• Maintain a safe, organized, and engaging Design Lab environment
• Manage materials, tools, and technology resources to support hands-on learning
• Support the integration of emerging technologies and tools where appropriate
• Ensure compliance with safety protocols and responsible use of equipment
• Ensure alignment with IB MYP requirements for teaching, assessment, and reporting
• Maintain accurate and meaningful assessment data using IB criteria-based grading
• Support the development and monitoring of student process journals as evidence of learning
• Contribute to IB authorization, evaluation, and continuous program improvement processes
• Collaborate with colleagues to strengthen interdisciplinary learning opportunities
• Contribute to a collaborative and reflective professional culture
• Engage in ongoing professional learning aligned with IB and school priorities
• Communicate effectively with students, families, and colleagues

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Education, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Experience teaching in a middle school or secondary school setting
• Working knowledge of the IB MYP framework, particularly the Design Cycle and criteria-based assessment
• Experience with STEM-related instruction, including robotics, engineering, or computer science
• Strong classroom management and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in an IB World School
• Experience with robotics platforms (e.g., VEX, LEGO Mindstorms) or similar technologies
• Experience developing interdisciplinary or project-based learning experiences

Leadership Competencies

• Strong instructional and pedagogical expertise
• Ability to design engaging, inquiry-based learning experiences
• Commitment to fostering creativity, innovation, and problem-solving
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Organizational and planning skills to manage a dynamic learning environment
• Ability to support students through iterative learning and “failing forward”

Personal Attributes

• Passion for design, innovation, and STEM education
• Student-centered mindset with a commitment to inclusive practices
• Reflective practitioner committed to continuous improvement
• Collaborative team member who contributes positively to school culture
• Flexibility and adaptability in a dynamic educational environment
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and care for students

About Windermere Preparatory School

Windermere Preparatory School is located on a beautiful 48-acre campus in Southwest Orange County. The school's academic approach is built on complex problem solving and critical thinking, emphasizes intellectual, personal, emotional and social growth, and culminates with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme. While academic achievement is the highest priority, it is complemented and enriched by a multitude of resources and extracurricular activities, such as fine and performing arts, athletics, clubs and community service. Through personalized learning and innovative curriculum, committed teachers provide instruction that develops and educates the whole child, both inside and outside the classroom.